Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded a two-day visit to New Delhi on Dec. 5, highlighting deeper economic and strategic ties with India as Moscow looks for stable partners under Western sanctions.
Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised what the Russian leader called a “particularly privileged partnership,” centered on energy and defense cooperation.
President Putin and I attended the Plenary Session of the India-Russia Trade Forum. This platform will add fresh momentum to our business ties and also open new avenues for innovation as well as growth.@KremlinRussia_E pic.twitter.com/TcesEqgCMV
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 5, 2025
India has become Russia’s top buyer of discounted crude since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, transforming previously minimal trade into a $140 billion oil flow.
Putin said Moscow would remain a reliable supplier for India’s “rapidly growing economy,” while both leaders agreed to boost Indian exports and widen cooperation into industrial and energy sectors.
The strengthening ties come despite U.S. attempts to pressure New Delhi. President Donald Trump has imposed tariffs and threatened secondary sanctions aimed at curbing India’s and China’s purchases of Russian oil. Yet both countries now account for 85% of Russia’s crude exports, helping sustain Moscow’s wartime revenue.
Also read:
Project Syndicate
TIPP Staff
